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Cambridge Mask Company targets bulk US sales

Cambridge Mask Company is set to expand into the US market having increased exports by more than 70 per cent in the last twelve months.

The startup makes masks in a range of colours and patterns to be worn to protect people from pollution and airborne illnesses. Its products are popular with cyclists and urban residents and use filter technology developed by the Ministry of Defence.

The company sells its masks through e-commerce site Amazon and exports to 16 countries including China, India and Poland.

The company is seeking to secure contracts in the US and supply its products direct to retailers. To meet potential new buyers, the firm will attend three trade shows in North America this year, supported by the Department for International Trade.

Christopher Dobbing, founder of Cambridge Mask Co, said: “We’ve always been a globally-focused business. Before launching Cambridge Mask Co, I worked as a director for an American brand of pollution masks so was fully aware of the appetite for this type of product overseas.

“One of the main challenges we’ve found while exporting is logistics. Although growing, we’re still a small business. When we export, we’re only shipping a few thousand units at a time, which isn’t enough to secure our own pallets on a ship.

“The DIT team has helped support our logistical challenges by offering advice on how to best work with distributors. It is also supporting us as we look to secure slots at upcoming trade shows in the US to meet potential buyers. If we can do it, so can many other local firms.”

Alan Pain, regional director, East of England, DIT, added: “The demand for British-made goods in the US is growing at rapid pace and, last year alone, firms in the East of England exported £3.78 billion worth of products to the US. Cambridge Mask Co is a great example of a business that dedicated to its international growth plans and is reaping the rewards of trading overseas.”